Linkedin Instagram Youtube Facebook Search Shopping-cart

Culture Shift

A Fundamental Culture Shift is Happening in the Profession. What Should I Do?

AIA California believes there’s a gap in our profession and the future is uncertain.

Will emerging professionals take a different route because we are not responding to the changing landscape?

Will other industries step in and usurp the role of the architect because we cannot meet the needs of our clients and communities?

Or can we work together to create a culture of trust and invest in the next generation?

Can we bridge the divide that currently exists and replace it with communication, collaboration, and clarity?

We need to take a hard look at the fundamental internal challenges facing the workforce and the longstanding, cultural norms that have led us here.

Workplaces have changed dramatically, with many offices exploring internal environments and structures to best serve employees and other stakeholders. What are new-generation best practices for next-generation architects?

Let’s consider a new model – one that creates a culture leading to a more satisfied workforce, a more successful practice, and a more resilient community.

AIA California is organizing this culture shift as part of our responsibility to the future of the profession. It not only benefits the people working in architectural firms, but also improves practice and contributes greatly to the economic prosperity of the profession.

What is the new model? Scroll down for what it is, and the steps firms can commit to to create a positive transformative future.

Then, take the CulturePledge. Transform what your firm can achieve. Click the button below:

My Pledge

The architectural profession stands at a pivotal moment; our response today shapes the trajectory of our future endeavors. To uphold our role as essential contributors to society, we boldly confront the challenges facing our workforce and reimagine our professional culture with vigor and passion.

Recognize the Need for Change

  • I acknowledge the urgent need for a shift in our professional culture.
  • I will embrace transparency, flexibility, and growth-oriented practices to meet evolving demands.

Initiate Cultural Transformation

  • I will foster trust, respect, and innovation within the practice to ensure ongoing relevance.
  • I will take the lead in redefining our profession’s values and practices.

Commit to Change in These Ways

Maximize Human Resources:

  1. I will recognize and celebrate the unique strengths of each team member.
  2. I will cultivate a collaborative environment that encourages authenticity and learning.
  3. I will prioritize employee well-being through modern benefits and flexible work arrangements.
  4. I will create diverse career paths with ample opportunities for growth and skill development.
  5. I will establish talent development programs and promote lifelong learning.
  6. I will commit to diversity goals and provide regular performance feedback to support advancement.

Initiate Cultural Transformation

  1. I will publicly acknowledge and reward career accomplishments and professional milestones.
  2. I will foster a sense of community within the firm to inspire collective success.
  3. I will advocate for transparency in pay scales, contract terms, and design processes.
  4. I will address environmental and social issues responsibly and advocate for sustainable design solutions.

What You Can do Right Now:

  • Evaluate your firm’s culture and how human resources are being maximized.
  • Identify challenges and opportunities in aligning your firm’s culture with the profession’s values today.
  • Seek out and learn from successful real-world examples and adapt them to suit your firm’s unique context.

Commit to growing and leading the way towards a brighter future for the architectural profession and the communities we serve.

Take the pledge. Click the button below.

Skip to content